After the helmet cam video went viral, there was increased awareness about the fire, which helped kick-start the donation drive. Patti Ghezzi, who is also a resident at the complex has been coordinating the drive.

“Sadly there are apartment fires all the time, but this one touched so many because of that video of the father, his baby and the heroism the firefighters showed,” Ghezzi said.

Lance Ragland was the father who made the quick decision to throw his daughter from the top of the ladder, which the firefighters believe saved her life.

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“My wife and seven other kids went down the ladder one by one then fell off and into the arms of other firefighters. But by the time it was Destiny’s turn, we were out of time. So I did what I had to do,” said Ragland.